WRONG PAIR OF SHOES

So, one of my favorite things in the whole world is cozy, lounge around the house foot gear. I love love love comfy socks. And, all of my slippers are lined with soft material. I have a theory – happy feet = happy soul.

This theory is based on my personal experience with awfully uncomfortable shoes.

Yes, anyone who knew me years ago, knew I had a thing for shoes. While they were lovely to look at, and at that time in my life I didn’t feel or notice the discomfort they caused, I am simply not the same person any longer. Yep, my kiddos can’t even imagine me wearing a pair of heels – I had to show them pictures as proof!!

The Turning Point: About six years ago I went to the Women Entrepreneurs Rock the World conference in NYC. I was so excited to go to see women I hadn’t seen in awhile and meet new, amazing women! The mistake I made – I wore heels. And I didn’t bring any alternatives. By the end of the day, while my heart was so excited, my body began to rebel. I had to sit, I couldn’t connect the same way, I was in massive pain…I learned my lesson, wear comfy shoes, or ALWAYS bring comfy shoe #2 “waiting in the wings”.

Soft socks and fuzzy slippers not only feel good on our feet, but the “feel good” feeling comes through in our facial expressions, our tone of voice, our overall state-of-being. We connect with humanity so much better when we are comfortable inside and out.

All this through a pair of comfy shoes? YES!! But it’s not just comfortable shoes, we are magnificently made, brilliantly designed human beings. And there is healing power through our senses, (particular to the shoe story) – the power of ‘touch’ through our somatosensory system.

“The somatosensory system (somatosensory nervous system or SNS) is a complex system of nerve cells that responds to changes to the surface or internal state of the body.”

The research is clear – there are over 100 studies on how touch can lift our mood, provide comfort, peace of mind, solace, even boost the immune system…so today, try incorporating something soothing by way of this sense.

Healing Hands
We don’t always have time or money to have a massage, although it is very powerful for relieving stress. If you have a partner, make sure to hold hands and connect with him/her. Find your favorite furry four-legged friend and pet away! Flying solo? You can give yourself a temple massage, adding in an aromatic oil will amp it up a notch. For a simple soother, try warming a wet towel and wrapping it around your hands or neck.

The Blankie Effect
Remember “woobies” work for a reason! Touch can happen in many forms, it doesn’t have to be physical contact. Ever notice how a child clings to his/her teddy bears or favorite blankets, especially when they are tired or teary eyed? Cuddle up to a velvet pillow, or put your blanket in the dryer for a few minutes to warm it up, and wrap it around you while watching TV. Keep your sheets and bedding soft, too.

Comfy from Head to Toe
Wearing clothing that feels good – from fleece pajamas to a satin shirt- can work wonders on your mood. And don’t forget your feet as I mentioned! Use gel inserts for your heels, or even keep fuzzy, soft-lined slippers under your desk or around the house. Aching feet cause a lot of stress throughout our bodies. Remember, physical stress can lead to mental stress and vice versa.

I’d love to hear from YOU!! You might not even realize it, but all the ways you use all of your senses can be uplifting and healing. Maybe you have a favorite song you turn to (sound), or a favorite candle you light (smell), or your bedroom is painted your favorite calming hue (sight), or you sip on your favorite tea (taste), or schedule a nice spa pedicure (touch)…you get my drift!! How do you incorporate the healing power of our senses into your life? Share with me so we can all learn from each other 😉